Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about the new BBC Two documentary Empire with David Olusoga, a three-part factual series exploring the rise and fall of the British Empire and its lasting global impact.
How to watch Empire with David Olusoga outside the UK on BBC iPlayer
To watch Empire with David Olusoga outside the UK, install a trusted VPN and connect to a UK server. Once connected, visit BBC iPlayer, the BBC’s free on-demand streaming service, and sign in with a valid BBC account linked to a UK TV Licence. This allows you to stream all episodes of Empire with David Olusoga in HD quality from anywhere in the world.
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK-based server.
- Open BBC iPlayer website then login or sign up for a free account. A UK postal code is required for registration. You can use a UK postcode generator if needed.
- You are all set to watch Empire with David Olusoga docuseries online from anywhere!
Empire with David Olusoga (2025 TV Series) Synopsis
Empire with David Olusoga is a three-part documentary that explores how Britain, a small island nation, came to rule over one-fifth of the world’s landmass and a quarter of its population. Historian and broadcaster David Olusoga travels to the United States, India, Barbados, and Australia to examine the rise and fall of the British Empire, uncovering the complex legacies it left behind. Combining personal stories, archival footage, and expert insight, Olusoga reveals how this shared history continues to shape global politics, identity, and race today.
When Does Empire with David Olusoga Premiere?
All three episodes of Empire with David Olusoga premiered on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 9 p.m. on BBC Two, and became available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Where to Watch Empire with David Olusoga
You can watch Empire with David Olusoga live on BBC Two or stream it anytime on BBC iPlayer. The series is presented in HD quality with subtitles and accessibility options.
Empire with David Olusoga Season 1 Episodes
Here are the episodes:
- Episode 1 – Premiere date: November 7, 2025
David Olusoga tells the story of the British Empire from its origins under Elizabeth I to the establishment of colonies in America, the Caribbean, and India. - Episode 2 – Premiere date: November 7, 2025
Olusoga examines how the loss of the American colonies led to the colonisation of Australia and the creation of the Indian indenture system. - Episode 3 – Premiere date: November 7, 2025
In the finale, Olusoga explores how the Empire reached its peak after World War I but quickly began to decline, uncovering the story of decolonisation.
Who Is David Olusoga?
David Adetayo Olusoga is a British historian, writer, broadcaster, and filmmaker, and Professor of Public History at the University of Manchester. He is best known for his acclaimed BBC series such as Black and British: A Forgotten History, A House Through Time, Union with David Olusoga, and Civilisations. Olusoga has also contributed to The One Show and written extensively for The Guardian. His work focuses on race, empire, and the way history shapes modern Britain.
Can You Watch Empire with David Olusoga Documentary Online for Free?
Yes. You can stream Empire with David Olusoga for free on BBC iPlayer if you have a valid UK TV Licence. Simply log in to the BBC iPlayer app or website and search for the series.
Is Empire with David Olusoga Suitable for All Ages?
Yes. Empire with David Olusoga is rated suitable for general audiences, though some historical content and references to colonial violence may require parental guidance for younger viewers. The series is educational and ideal for students, families, and history enthusiasts.
Where Can I Download Empire with David Olusoga Full Episodes?
You can download full episodes of Empire with David Olusoga directly through the BBC iPlayer app, available on mobile devices and supported smart TVs.
On What Devices Can You Watch BBC iPlayer?
Empire with David Olusoga and all other BBC programs are available on BBC iPlayer, which supports:
- Smart TVs – Samsung, LG, Sony, Panasonic, Hisense, and Android TVs
- Streaming Devices – Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, Roku, Chromecast
- Mobile Devices – iOS and Android smartphones and tablets
- Computers – Windows, macOS, and Linux via browsers
- Gaming Consoles – Xbox and PlayStation models with BBC iPlayer app support
FAQs
What is the theme of Empire with David Olusoga?
The series examines how the British Empire expanded, governed, and eventually collapsed, exploring both its achievements and its moral and human costs across continents.
Where was Empire with David Olusoga filmed?
Filming took place in historical locations across the United Kingdom, India, Barbados, Australia, and the United States, offering on-site insights into the remnants of the Empire.
Who produced Empire with David Olusoga?
The documentary was produced by Hillgate Films and Voltage TV for the BBC, continuing Olusoga’s collaboration with top factual producers behind Union and Black and British.
Empire with David Olusoga Trailer
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